Alvarez: “We are on the map once again”
SWAN LAKE – As Sullivan County continues to see economic development
growth, more jobs from new business and an anticipated growth in visitation
by the millions, county officials say they are ready for it.
During his 2018 State of the County address Thursday evening, Legislative Chairman Luis Alvarez said the county is ready to be a leader moving into the future.
“We are on the map once again and we will be known around the world, not just as the place where it happened, but as the place where it is happening every day,” said Alvarez. “This is our time to lead and I am proud to be your leader.”
Although a great deal of the excitement has been generated through the arrival of Resorts World Catskills, Roscoe Brewing Company, Catskill Brewery and Metcar, Alvarez said the county is looking to take the benefits from the county’s economic growth and pay it back to the public.
A great deal of emphasis has been put on improving infrastructure, with plans to repave 68 miles of road in 2018 and investing $10 million in bridge repairs/replacements, increasing the county’s low healthcare rating, providing better community safety, school safety and emergency services, increasing the image of the county for the influx of new visitors, focusing on energy efficiency, utilizing shared services, as well as prioritizing human services.
Looking to the future, Alvarez said the new county jail is expected to open in 2019 along with continuing renovations on the government center.
The county will also be expecting another exponential increase in visitation following the opening of the indoor waterpark next year and the 50th Anniversary of the Woodstock festival, for which they are already planning.
The venue for the State of the County message was new. Usually held in the legislative chamber at the county government center, this year, Alvarez opted for the county airport near Swan Lake.
